Attachment apparatuses and associated methods of use and manufacture

ABSTRACT

A system for carrying or using a device includes the device and at least one attachment apparatus. The device may include at least one attachment element. The attachment apparatus may include a length of material and at least one attachment point arranged on an end of the length of material. The at least one attachment point may include at least one magnetic feature configured to attach and detach the device and the length of material. The material can include but is not limited to cloth, metallic (magnetic and non-magnetic), fibrous material, and so forth.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a 35 U.S.C. § 371 application of PCT/US2014/027971,filed Mar. 10, 2014 and titled “Attachment Apparatuses and AssociatedMethods of Use and Manufacture,” which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/801,915, filed Mar. 15, 2013 andtitled “ Attachment Apparatuses and Associated Methods of Use andManufacture,” the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated byreference herein in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE DESCRIBED EMBODIMENTS

The described embodiments relate generally to attachment apparatuses,and more particularly, to attachment apparatuses including straps orbands with at least one point of attachment.

BACKGROUND

Generally, straps or bands may be attached to a variety of items for usein carrying the items (e.g., hand strap or luggage strap), strappingthem to another item or a person's body (e.g., arm band), or a pluralityof other uses. However, conventional straps may require a mechanicalconnection to fixedly attach the strap to an item, and may not offereasy personal adjustments to length and other attributes. Furthermore,the mechanical connections may be difficult to use making it difficultto remove or replace the strap

SUMMARY OF THE DESCRIBED EMBODIMENTS

This paper describes various embodiments that relate to attachmentapparatuses.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a system for carrying orusing a device may include the device and at least one attachmentapparatus. The device may include at least one attachment element. Theat least one attachment apparatus may include a length of material andat least one attachment point arranged on an end of the length ofmaterial. The at least one attachment point may include at least onemagnetic feature configured to attach and detach the device and thelength of material. The material can include but is not limited tocloth, metallic (magnetic and non-magnetic), fibrous material, and soforth.

According to an additional embodiment of the disclosure, a method ofcarrying or using a device may include at least one attachment element.The method may further include engaging at least one attachmentapparatus with the at least one attachment element. The at least oneattachment apparatus may include a length of material and at least oneattachment point arranged on an attachment point of the length ofmaterial, and a magnetic element corresponding to the attachment pointand configured to couple to the at least one attachment element. The atleast one attachment point may be formed of a material configured tocosmetically match a cosmetic appearance of the device.

An attachment system may include a first strap unit having at least onestrap with a first strap characteristic and a first strap attachmentcoupling, the first strap characteristic possibly including a magneticfield having a polarity and a second strap unit having at least onestrap with a second strap characteristic and a second attachmentcoupling that is configured to securely engage to the first attachmentcoupling of the first strap unit and releasably engage from the firstattachment coupling of the first strap unit. The second attachmentcoupling may cooperate with the first attachment coupling of the firststrap unit, the first strap unit possibly including a first magneticallyattractable element. A cooperating strap assembly may be formed by thefirst strap unit and the second strap unit magnetically attaching toeach other.

A strapping assembly may include a first flexible member having a firstattachment element and a second flexible member having a secondattachment element, the second attachment element possibly beingconfigured to couple to the first attachment element so as to secure thefirst and second flexible members together, the first and secondattachment elements possibly including at least a magnetic element thatprovides at least a portion of the coupling force of the firstattachment element relative to the second attachment elements.

A strapping assembly may include a carrier module including at least onefunctional element and a first attachment element; a flexible memberthat includes a length of material and having a second attachmentelement disposed proximate one end of the length of material, the secondattachment element possibly being configured to couple to the firstattachment element so as to secure the flexible member to the base unit,the first and second attachment elements possibly including at least amagnetic element that provides at least a portion of the coupling forceof the first attachment element relative to the second attachmentelements.

A strapping assembly may include a carrier module including at least onefunctional element and a pair of first module attachment elements; afirst flexible member having a second module attachment element that isconfigured to couple to one of the first module attachment elements, thefirst flexible member possibly including a first strap attachmentelement; and a second flexible member possibly having a second moduleattachment element that is configured to couple to the other one of thefirst module attachment elements, the second flexible member possiblyincluding a second strap attachment element, the second strap attachmentelement possibly being configured to couple to the first strapattachment element so as to secure the first and second flexible memberstogether, wherein the first and second strap attachment elements mayinclude at least a magnetic element that provides at least a portion ofthe coupling force of the first strap attachment element relative to thesecond strap attachment elements, wherein the first and second moduleattachment elements may include at least a magnetic element thatprovides at least a portion of the coupling force of the first moduleattachment element relative to the second module attachment elements.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a modular assembly forelectronic devices is described. A modular assembly for electronicdevices may include a base unit having at least a first functionalsystem and a first enclosure with a first characteristic, the first baseunit possibly having a first attachment coupling and a second attachmentcoupling, a first strap unit having at least one strap with a firststrap characteristic and a first strap attachment coupling that isconfigured to securely engage to the first attachment coupling of thebase unit and releasably engage from the first attachment coupling ofthe base unit, the first strap characteristic may include a magneticfield having a polarity and a second strap unit having at least onestrap with a second strap characteristic and a second attachmentcoupling that is configured to securely engage to the second attachmentcoupling of the base unit and releasably engage from the secondattachment coupling of the base unit, the second attachment couplingpossibly being the same as the second attachment coupling of the firststrap unit, wherein the second strap characteristic is different thanthe first strap characteristic, the second strap unit possibly includinga first magnetically attractable element, wherein a cooperating strapassembly may be formed by the first strap unit and the second strap unitmagnetically attached to each other.

Other aspects and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent fromthe following detailed description taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, theprinciples of the described embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various aspects of this disclosure may be better understood upon readingthe following detailed description and upon reference to the drawings inwhich:

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a strap system;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a strap system;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a strap system;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a strap system;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a strap system;

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of a strap system;

FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of a strap system;

FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of a strap system;

FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of a strap system;

FIG. 8A is a plan view of a strap system prior to insertion;

FIG. 8B is a plan view of a strap system after insertion;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a strap system prior to insertion;

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of a strap system after insertion;

FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view of a strap system prior to insertion;

FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view of a strap system after insertion;

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of an attachment system;

FIG. 11B is a plan view of a strap system adapted for a tablet computer;

FIG. 11C is a perspective view of a strap adapted to secure a bundle ofwire;

FIG. 11D is a perspective view of a strap adapted to secure a pursestrap;

FIG. 11E is a perspective view of a strap adapted for use in shoe laces;

FIG. 11F is a plan view of a capture type strap;

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a strap system;

FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of a strap system;

FIG. 12C is a perspective view of a reversed strap system;

FIG. 12D is a cross-sectional view of a reversed strap system;

FIG. 13A is a cross-sectional view of a strap system with magneticfeatures;

FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view of a reversed strap system withmagnetic features;

FIG. 14A is a cross-sectional view of a strap system with magneticfeatures;

FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of a reversed strap system withmagnetic features;

FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view of a strap system with magneticfeatures;

FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view of a reversed strap system withmagnetic features;

FIG. 16A is a cross-sectional view of a strap system with magneticfeatures;

FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of a reversed strap system withmagnetic features;

FIG. 17A is a cross-sectional view of a strap system with magneticfeatures;

FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of a reversed strap system withmagnetic features;

FIG. 18A is a cross-sectional view of a strap system with magneticfeatures;

FIG. 18B is a cross-sectional view of a reversed strap system withmagnetic features;

FIG. 19A is a cross-sectional view of a strap system with magneticfeatures;

FIG. 19B is a cross-sectional view of a reversed strap system withmagnetic features;

FIG. 20A is a cross-sectional view of a strap system with magneticfeatures;

FIG. 20B is a cross-sectional view of a reversed strap system withmagnetic features;

FIG. 21A is a cross-sectional view of a strap system using ferrousmaterials;

FIG. 21B is a cross-sectional view of a reversed strap system withmagnetic features;

FIG. 22A shows a perspective view of a strap system;

FIG. 22B shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system;

FIG. 23A shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system;

FIG. 23B shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system;

FIG. 24A shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including arecessed area;

FIG. 24B shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including arecessed area;

FIG. 25A shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including arecessed area and a magnetic feature;

FIG. 25B shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including arecessed area and a magnetic feature;

FIG. 26A shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including amagnetic feature;

FIG. 26B shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including amagnetic feature;

FIG. 27A shows a perspective view of a strap system including magneticfeatures;

FIG. 27B shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system includingmagnetic features;

FIG. 28A shows a perspective view of a strap system including a claspand magnetic features;

FIG. 28B shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including aclasp and magnetic features;

FIG. 29A shows a perspective view of a strap system including a claspand magnetic features;

FIG. 29B shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including aclasp and magnetic features;

FIG. 30A shows a perspective view of a strap system including a claspand magnetic features;

FIG. 30B shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including aclasp and magnetic features;

FIG. 31 shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including amagnetic feature;

FIG. 32A shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including amagnetic feature;

FIG. 32B shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including amagnetic feature;

FIG. 33 shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including amagnetic feature;

FIG. 34A shows a perspective view of a strap system including a claspand magnetic features;

FIG. 34B shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system including aclasp and magnetic features;

FIG. 35A shows a perspective view of a strap system including a claspand magnetic features prior to insertion;

FIG. 35B shows a perspective view of a strap system including a claspand magnetic features after insertion;

FIG. 36 shows a perspective view of a strap system having a protrudingmember and plurality of apertures;

FIG. 37 shows a perspective view of a strap system having a protrudingmember and plurality of apertures;

FIG. 38A shows a perspective view of a strap system in an unfastenedstate;

FIG. 38B shows a perspective view of a strap system in a fastened state;

FIG. 39A shows a perspective view of a strap system in an unfastenedstate;

FIG. 39B shows a perspective view of a strap system in a fastened state;

FIG. 40A shows a perspective view of a process for fastening a strap;

FIG. 40B shows a perspective view of a process for fastening a strap;

FIG. 40C shows a perspective view of a process for fastening a strap;

FIG. 40D shows a perspective view of a process for fastening a strap;

FIG. 40E shows a cross-sectional view of a process for fastening astrap;

FIG. 41A shows a perspective view of a strap system utilizing a magneticplug;

FIG. 41B shows a perspective view of a strap system utilizing a magneticplug;

FIG. 41C shows a perspective view of a strap system utilizing a magneticplug;

FIG. 41D shows a perspective view of a strap system utilizing a magneticplug;

FIG. 41E shows a cross-sectional view of a strap system utilizing amagnetic plug;

FIG. 42A shows a perspective view of a strap system utilizing a hookclamp;

FIG. 42B shows a plan view of a strap system utilizing a hook clamp;

FIG. 42C shows a plan view of a strap system utilizing a hook clamp;

FIG. 42D shows a plan view of a strap system utilizing a hook clamp;

FIGS. 43-51 shows a perspective view of a woven magnetic strap inaccordance with various embodiments;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED EMBODIMENTS

Representative applications of methods and apparatus according to thepresent application are described in this section. These examples arebeing provided solely to add context and aid in the understanding of thedescribed embodiments. It will thus be apparent to one skilled in theart that the described embodiments may be practiced without some or allof these specific details. In other instances, well known process stepshave not been described in detail in order to avoid unnecessarilyobscuring the described embodiments. Other applications are possible,such that the following examples should not be taken as limiting.

In the following detailed description, references are made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in whichare shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordancewith the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are describedin sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice thedescribed embodiments, it is understood that these examples are notlimiting; such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may bemade without departing from the spirit and scope of the describedembodiments.

This paper describes attachment apparatuses that provide easy and fastattachment to or detachment from a device. According to the describedembodiments, an attachment apparatus can include a length of materialand at least one attachment point at which an attachment element(s) islocated. The attachment point can be arranged at a position of thelength of material and the associated attachment element can beconfigured to attach to a separate device or apparatus or in some cases,attach to another attachment element at another attachment point on thelength of material. The separate device can take many forms. Theseparate device can include personal devices, such as a cellulartelephone, luggage, personal electronic device, or any other suitableseparate device. The attachment element can use any of a number ofattachment protocols to secure the attachment point to the separatedevice. The attachment protocols can include methods and mechanisms suchas, for example, a magnetic attraction between a magnetic or ferrouselement disposed at the attachment point and a corresponding magneticelement on the separate device. The attachment protocols can include amagnetic element in combination with a mechanical element such as afastener, and so on. The magnetic element can take the form of apermanent magnet, a magnetized metallic object (formed of ferrousmaterial), magnetically attractable metal and so forth.

The attachment apparatus can form an attachment between at least twoobjects. The attachment can be symmetric, or reversible, by which it ismeant that the attachment between the at least two objects can beindependent of the relative positions of the two objects. In otherwords, the attachment can remain the same regardless of the relativeorientation of the objects with respect to each other. For example, inaccordance with a symmetric attachment between two objects, thepositioning of the objects can be reversed with respect to each otherwithout affecting the manner in which the two objects attach. Arepresentative symmetric attachment element can include a magneticelement. The magnetic element has an intrinsic polarity (N, S) and canmagnetically attract a ferrous object with either magnetic pole equally.Accordingly, the magnetic attachment between the ferrous object and themagnet is inherently symmetric (i.e., reversing the magnetic polarity asobserved by the ferrous object has no effect on the attachment betweenthe magnetic element and the ferrous object). However, if the secondobject also possesses intrinsic polarity, then the attachment betweenthe two objects becomes asymmetric since the attachment will depend uponthe relative positions of the two objects. As above, if the two objectsare positioned such that opposite magnetic poles interact, then theobjects are magnetically attracted to each other. On the other hand, ifthe two objects are positioned in a reverse order such the like magneticpoles interact, and then the two objects will magnetically repel eachother. In this way, the attachment element can be arranged to exhibiteither symmetric attachment or asymmetric attachment properties.

In some cases, the attachment element can be configured to exhibit bothsymmetric and asymmetric attachment elements depending upon a particularuse. Symmetric and asymmetric attachment can be very advantageous. Anasymmetric attachment apparatus can provide for preferred attachment. Bypreferred attachment, an attachment system that exhibits asymmetricattachment can allow only for a selected attachment configuration andany other attachment configurations are rejected. For example, if a useris left handed, a preferred attachment configuration is one that affordsthe left handed user a comfortable grasp of an object, such as a purse.In this regard, an asymmetric attachment system can be used to attach ahandle to the purse that suits the left handedness of the user andrejects any other configuration (such as would be the case if an attemptto attach the handle in a right handed manner). Accordingly, themagnetic elements can be arranged in such a way that the strap systemwill attach to a flexible member or an object in only a pre-selected andpreferred orientation and location. In this regard, the attachment canbe described as asymmetric. An asymmetric attachment system can usemagnets that create an attractive force in only a preferred orientationand creates a repulsive force otherwise. In this way, the asymmetricattachment system can actively reject an undesired arrangement whenmagnetic elements are juxtaposed in such a way that a magnetic repulsiveforce is created. The magnetic repulsive force can be used to eject orotherwise prevent an object from being attached to a flexible member,for example, in any but the preferred arrangement.

In other embodiments, the attachment apparatus can take on additionalforms. For example, the attachment apparatus can include both mechanicalattachment elements and magnetic attachment elements. In someembodiments, the magnetic attachment element can include magneticelements. The magnetic elements can be arranged in a continuous manneror in a discrete manner. The magnetic elements can be arranged inpatterns. The magnetic patterns can be linear in nature (onedimensional), planar in nature (two dimensional), or occupy a volume ofspace in accordance with a three dimensional pattern. By utilizingmagnetic patterns, the attachment element can provide additional servicebeyond those associated with a simple attachment. For example, adiscrete linear pattern can provide for discrete adjustment of amagnetically active band such as an arm band. The placement of magneticelements in the magnetic pattern can take many forms. The placement canbe striped, checkerboard, circular, rectangular, and the like. Themagnetic elements can be arranged in a symmetric arrangement that canprovide a reversible attachment between objects. The magnetic patterncan be used to attach a flexible member to an object (or anotherflexible member) in a pre-defined orientation in a repeatable manner.Therefore, a magnetic attachment element that includes magnetic elementsarranged in a magnetic pattern can be well suited for applications thatrequire repeated attachments. Such applications can include flexiblemembers such as arm bands, bracelets and such.

The use of magnetic elements affords a user of the strap system with theability to easily interchange selected elements of the attachmentsystem. For example, a magnetic element can form a symmetric attachmentwith a ferrous material since the magnetic attraction induced willalways be attractive in nature (presuming the ferrous material has noextrinsic magnetic field). Accordingly, magnetic elements can beinterchanged with other magnetic elements without altering the basicmagnetic attachment with the ferrous object. This ability to easily swapelements of the strap system affords a user with a wide variety ofoptions with respect to attaching objects and flexible members. Forexample, a symmetric strap system can provide a user with the ability toeasily transition from a left handed arrangement to a right handedarrangement. This can be very useful for situations where handedness canbe important, such as carrying a purse.

Accordingly, a magnetic attachment mechanism as described herein caninclude a magnet that can magnetically attract a correspondingattachment element such as a snap or lock. In some embodiments, themagnet can be disposed within a recess or embedded with a member. Inthis way, the magnetic attraction can be personalized for a particularuser. For example, by providing magnets embedded within.

Hereinafter, detailed discussion of a plurality of embodiments of thedisclosure is presented. Each embodiment presented may be configurableto function with additional embodiments in a coordinated manner, mayfunction entirely individually, or may be altered from the particularforms illustrated.

FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of an attachment or strap system 10, inaccordance with one embodiment of the disclosure. Strap system 10 cangenerally be configured to bind one object or to hold a number ofobjects together. The objects can be aesthetic elements, mechanicalelements, electrical elements and/or the like. Strap system 10 can be,for example, configured to encircle a portion of a body to secure anarticle or loads to the body. For example, strap system 10 can besecured to a waist, arms, legs, neck, and the like. Moreover, strapsystem 10 can be configured to help attach two portions of an objecttogether. For example, strap system 10 can be used in soft goods such aspurses, garments, accessories, or other clothing. By way of example,strap system 10 can be used to connect a flap to the pouch of a purse orfirst and second flaps of a shoe or a cover to a case. These and otherembodiments will be discussed in great detail below.

In a particular embodiment, strap system 10 can include at leastflexible member 12 and attachment element 14. Attachment element 14 canreleasably connect/secure flexible member 12 to itself, to anotherflexible member 12, or to an object (e.g., strap on strap, strap tostrap, or strap on/to object). Attachment element 14 can work alone orin conjunction with another attachment element located on the flexiblemember itself, on another flexible member, or on an object. Attachmentelement 14 can take many forms such as mechanical, magnetic,magnetic/mechanical and so forth. In this regard, attachment element 14can be a fastener, clasp, clinch, snap, clamp, cinch, buckle, and/or thelike. Flexible member 12 can be a strap, strip, cord, band, belt,ribbon, flap, girth, shackle, thong, and/or the like. In essence,flexible member 12 can be any length of material. Attachment element 14can be fixed relative to the flexible member 12. In some cases,attachment element 14 can be removable. In one embodiment, attachmentelement(s) 14 can be disposed on or within flexible member(s)/object(s)12. By way of example, attachment element 14 can be embedded withinflexible member 12 such that it is not visible or otherwise hidden fromview and provides flexible member 12 with a continuous or unbrokensurface. Alternatively or additionally, attachment element 14 can bemounted or integrated on the surface of flexible member 12.Alternatively or additionally, attachment element 14 can be a separatediscrete component that is carried by flexible member 12. The manner inwhich flexible member 12 interfaces with itself, to another flexiblemember, or to an object via the attachment element(s) 14 can be widelyvaried. In one embodiment, flexible member 12 interfaces with itself, toanother flexible member, or to an object in a layered fashion (FIG. 2).That is, the attachment elements can be placed adjacent or overlaidrelative to one another along their respective lengths. In anotherembodiment, flexible member 12 can interface with itself, to anotherflexible member, or to an object at its end or ends (FIG. 3). In yetanother embodiment, flexible member 12 can interface with itself, toanother flexible member, or to object via a clasp or buckle 18 (FIG. 4).In this regard, clasp or buckle 18 can be a separate part or it can beintegrated with or carried by flexible member 12. In yet anotherembodiment, flexible member 12 can interface with itself, to anotherflexible member, or to object 16 via a loop (FIG. 5). It should beappreciated that any combination of the above can be used.

FIGS. 6A-6B show embodiments of attachment system 14 having discretearrangements of magnetic elements. In one embodiment, one or more of theattachment system(s) 14 can be configured with a magnetic feature. Themagnetic feature can provide a magnetic force (attraction or repulsion)that helps secure the flexible member 12 to itself, to another flexiblemember 12, or to an object. The magnetic element can also be used toproperly align flexible member to an object. The magnetic element can beconfigured in such a way that attachment system 14 secures flexiblemember 12 in a specific orientation or arrangement. For example, themagnetic element can cause flexible member 12 to take on a specificlength along the lines of an arm band sized to fit a particular user'sarm without further user adjustments. The magnetic element can be widelyvaried. In this regard, attachment system 14 can include a magnet or aplurality of magnets. The plurality of magnets can be arranged patternthat can be discrete or continuous or a combination of both. In anotherembodiment, attachment system 14 can include a ferrous material thatinterfaces with a magnet. In yet another embodiment, the attachmentelement can includes a mechanical interlock such as a fixed button/snapor mechanism with moving parts (hook/catch) that cooperates with amagnet and/or ferrous material.

In a strap on strap configuration, the position of flexible member 12relative to itself, another flexible member or an object is adjustablevia attachment element(s) 14. That is, attachment system 14 can beconfigured with multiple locking positions. It can be that only theflexible member adjusts or it can be that they both adjust. This can beaccomplished through indexed or continuous attachment. Using themagnetic embodiments mentioned above, in one implementation, flexiblemember 12 can include single magnetic feature 14 that interfaces withmultiple magnetic features 14 of flexible member 12 or object (FIG. 6A).It should be noted that flexible member 12 can be a continuous loophaving a first and second ends that can wrap around and meet each other.The first and second ends can each have associated attachment features.In other embodiments, at least two flexible members can be joined byattachment feature 14 creating in essence a single joined entity. In anycase, multiple magnetic features 14 can be positioned one after anotheralong a length of flexible member 12 (FIG. 6B). FIGS. 7A and 7B show amore continuous distribution of magnetic elements. In one example,multiple magnetic features 14 can be spaced apart to provide distinctseparate positions (FIG. 7A). In yet another implementation, flexiblemember 12 can include single magnetic feature 14 that can interface withelongated magnetic feature 14 having a length that can be greater thanthat of the single magnetic feature (FIG. 7B). Accordingly, the relativelengths of magnetic element 14 can be widely varied. In this way,magnetic attachment afforded by magnetic element 14 can be varied inaccordance with a particular application.

FIGS. 8A-8B shows representative strap system 10 in accordance with adescribed embodiment. Strap system 10 can include flexible member(s) 12and attachment feature 14. In this embodiment, attachment feature 14 cantake the form of a buckle that accommodates and secures snap. In someembodiments, attachment feature 14 can use mechanical features to securebuckle and snap whereas in other embodiments, attachment feature 14 canuse magnetic elements, or a combination of magnetic and ferrous elementsfor securing buckle and snap. Moreover, FIGS. 9A-9B shows a loopattachment system 10 in which flexible member 12 include attachmentfeature 14 that includes attachment elements that are spaced apart andare arranged to engage with each other so as to afford flexible member12 the ability to form loop 26 that can engage an object. Loopattachment system 10 can be used to form an arm or leg band that can beused to releasably secure an electronic device to a user. FIGS. 10A and10B illustrate a capture type strap system 10. In particular, capturestrap system 10 can include member 12 and distributed attachment feature14. Distributed attachment feature 14 can include attachment elementsthat are distributed in such a way that by cooperation, member 12 isattached to object 16. Distributed attachment system 14 can utilizemagnetic elements, mechanical elements, or a combination of magnetic andmechanical elements. The attachment can be symmetric or asymmetric.

FIG. 11A is a diagram of a strap system 10 in accordance with oneembodiment. The strap system 10 is generally configured to bind oneobject or to hold a number of objects together. The objects may beaesthetic elements, mechanical elements, electrical elements and/or thelike. The strap system 10 may for example be configured to encircle aportion of an object and/or to secure loads to the object. For example,the strap system may be used to secure an article to a body part. By wayof example, the strap system may be used to secure a device to an arm orarm. The strap system may also be configured to help attach two portionsof an object together. For example, the strap system may be used in softgoods such as purses, garments, accessories, or other clothing. By wayof example, the strap system may be used to connect a flap to the pouchof a purse or first and second flaps of a shoe or a cover to a case.These and other embodiments will be discussed in greater detail below.The strap system can include attachment elements that are mechanical,magnetic, or a combination of mechanical and magnetic elements. Magneticattachment elements can rely upon magnetic polarity between cooperatingmagnetic elements. In some cases, the magnetic polarity can provide asymmetric attachment. For example, a magnetic element regardless ofmagnetic polarity can form a symmetric magnetic attachment with aferrous attachment element having no intrinsic magnetic polarity. Inthis way, the orientation of the magnetic element with respect to theferrous attachment element will have no effect on the attachment. On theother hand, if both attachment elements possess an intrinsic magneticpolarity, then the attachment can be asymmetric since the attachmentdepends upon the spatial relationship between the magnetic elements andin particular whether a magnetic attraction or repulsion force isgenerated. In any case, strap system 10 includes one or more flexiblemembers 12, attachment system 14, and carrier module 16 from whichflexible members 12 extend. The carrier module 16 may be widely varied.In the illustrated example, the carrier module 16 is a pouch configuredfor receiving an electronic device. The pouch may receive for exampleany number of electronic devices including, for example, media players,communication devices, and so on. It can also receive other deviceswhether mechanical, electrical, and/or the like. The pouch may include awindow for allowing access to the electronic device contained within thepouch. While a pouch is shown, it should be appreciated that this is nota limitation and that the carrier module 16 can take a variety of formsincluding soft and hard cases or skins. In addition, it may even be adevice itself such as a media player, communication device or any of theothers mentioned above. The flexible members 12 may also be widelyvaried. The flexible members 12 may be a strap, strip, cord, band, belt,ribbon, flap, girth, shackle, thong, and/or the like. In essence, it canbe any length of material. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexiblemembers 12 are straps or bands that extend along a length such that theycan be wrapped around another object in order to secure the carriermodule to the other object. By way of example, the straps may be used tosecure the carrier module 16 to a portion of a body or an article ofclothing. In cases such as this, the user does not have to hold thestrap system or any load that is being carried by the strap system.

The strap system 10 includes a releasable set of one or more flexiblemembers proximate the end that couple to the carrier module. Byreleasable it is meant that the flexible members can be secured to thecarrier module 16 such that they cooperate as a single unit or they canbe removed from the carrier module 16 such that they are discrete parts.In this manner, different flexible members can be added/removed to/fromthe carrier module. In order to help enable this function, the strapsystem 10 may include a first attachment system 14 (or a carrierattachment system) proximate the interface between the flexible member12 and the carrier module 16. In one embodiment, the first attachmentsystem 14 includes a carrier side attachment feature and a flexiblemember side attachment features. These attachment features work togetherto releasably hold the flexible members 12 to the carrier module 16.These features can be widely varied. In the illustrated embodiment, theflexible member side attachment feature includes an end member thatengages a buckle located on the carrier member. The end member islocated at the end of the flexible member and includes a mechanicalstructure that is received by the buckle. For example the buckle mayinclude an opening that receives the end member therein. That is, theend member is sized and dimensioned for insertion and retention withinthe opening in the buckle. It should be appreciated that this particularimplementation is not a limitation and that other configurations may beused. For example, instead of an end member the flexible member itselfmay pass through the opening and connect to another portion of theflexible member such that a loop is formed around the buckle. These andother embodiments will be described in greater detail below.

In some cases, the carrier module 16 and flexible member 12 or somecombination of the two includes an additional retention feature to helphold the flexible member 12 relative to the carrier module 16. Forexample, with respect to the embodiment mentioned above, the buckleand/or the end member may include a retention feature to help keep theend member within the opening of the buckle. The retention member may bewidely varied and may include detents, snaps, latches, catches, hooks,magnets and/or the like. The retention mechanism can take many forms.For example, the retention member can take the form of a magnet ormagnetic elements arranged in such a way to provide either symmetric orasymmetric attachment. The retention mechanism can include mechanical ora combination of mechanical and magnetic aspects.

In accordance with one embodiment, the strap system 10 includes adetachable set of one or more flexible members along its length and/orproximate the end opposite the carrier module. By detachable it is meantthat the flexible members can be attached to themselves and/or anotherflexible member. When attached, they cooperate as a single unit to forma closed loop. The closed loop can be positioned around an object asmentioned above.

When detached, they are separate parts thereby freeing the object. Inthis manner, the flexible members can be open and closed to secure andfree the strap system to/from the object. In order to help enable thisfunction, the strap system 10 may include a second attachment system 18(or strap attachment system) proximate the flexible member(s). Thesecond attachment system 18 may be widely varied. The attachment systemmay include one or more attachment elements such as fastener, clasp,clinch, snap, clamp, cinch, buckle, magnets and/or the like. Theattachment elements can be fixed, removable or adjustable relative tothe flexible member. In one embodiment, the attachment element(s) aredisposed on or within the flexible member(s). By way of example, theattachment element may be embedded within the flexible member 12 suchthat it is not visible, hidden from view and/or provides a continuous orunbroken surface. Alternatively or additionally, the attachmentelement(s) may be mounted or integrated on the surface of the flexiblemember. Alternatively or additionally, the attachment element(s) may bea separate discrete component that is carried by the flexible member.

Strap system 10 can generally be configured to bind one object or tohold a number of objects together. The objects can be aestheticelements, mechanical elements, electrical elements and/or the like.Strap system 10 can be, for example, configured to encircle a portion ofa body to secure other objects or loads to the body. For example, strapsystem 10 can be secured to a waist, arms, legs, arms, neck, and thelike. Moreover, strap system 10 can be configured to help attach twoportions of an object together. For example, strap system 10 can be usedin soft goods such as purses, garments, accessories, or other clothing.By way of example, strap system 10 can be used to connect a flap to thepouch of a purse or first and second flaps of a shoe or a cover to acase. These and other embodiments will be discussed in greater detailbelow.

Attachment system 14 can be magnetic, mechanical or a combination ofboth. FIG. 11B shows an accessory system for portable electronic device20. The accessory system can include a flap pivotally attached to acover suitable for supporting electronic device 20. In this regard, theflap can be open or closed with respect portable electronic device 20.When closed, the flap can be secured to the cover using strap system 10.In particular, flexible member 12 and can engage attachment feature 14.FIG. 11C shows a cable system that is secured by strap system 10. FIG.11D shows a purse system that can be secured using strap system 10 thatutilizes two separate flexible members. In one embodiment, a firstflexible member can be used to help secure a flap to the pouch whereas asecond flexible member can be used to form a continuous strap that canbe placed around a shoulder. FIG. 11E shows a shoe system that includesstrap system 10 incorporating multiple straps and associated flexiblemembers to help secure shoe flaps in position for holding the shoe on afoot. FIG. 11F shows a belt that includes strap system. It should benoted that there and other figures are only exemplary and it should beappreciated that strap system 10 can be extended to otherproducts/articles.

FIGS. 12A-12D show strap system 120, in accordance with one embodimentof the disclosure. FIG. 12A illustrates how attachment system 14 couplesflexible member 12 to object 16. Object 16 can represent an entireobject or a portion of an object to which flexible member 12 can beattached using, for example, magnets embedded with flexible member 12.In this way, the magnets cannot be seen and the magnetic attraction canbe personalized in such a way that the magnetic attachment can be“softened”. By softened it is meant that although a secure magneticattachment is created, the manner that the attachment is formed issmooth and does not possess (if desired) a hard mechanical sound whenattachment is made. Therefore, by embedding or otherwise overlaying themagnetic elements, a user can experience, again if desired, a“snap-less” magnetic attachment. On the other hand, if the use desiresthe sound and feel of a secure “snap” then by simply exposing orotherwise reducing the interfacing layers of member 12, the desireddegree of “snap” can be provided. In one embodiment, object 16 canrepresent an edge of an electronic device and flexible member 12 canrepresent a strap configured to secure the electronic device. It shouldbe noted that FIG. 12B shows cross- sectional view A-A of strap system120. As depicted, an opening can be provided in object 16 and flexiblemember 12 can be inserted through the opening in object 16. Flexiblemember 12 can include end cap 122 located at a free end of flexiblemember 12. End cap 122 can be mechanically coupled to flexible member 12using adhesives, threading, crimping, or any other feasible means ofproviding a robust connection. In some embodiments, end cap 122 caninclude one or more flanges along a surface facing away from flexiblemember 12. Furthermore, the opening in object 16 can include a recessconfigured to interlock with the flanges on end cap 122 and preventflexible member 12 from passing through the opening in object 16. Inother embodiments, the flanges on end cap 122 and recess in object 16can be replaced by any interlocking structure capable of preventingflexible member 12 from passing through object 16. For example,interlocking angled surface can be included in both end cap 122 andobject 16. In still other embodiments, a second recess can be providedat an opposite end of the opening in object 16, allowing flexible member12 to be inserted from the opposite direction. FIGS. 12C and 12D showisometric and cross-sectional views respectively of such aconfiguration. As depicted, flexible member 12 can be inserted through abottom surface of object 16 and end cap 122 can interlock with thecorresponding recess located at the bottom surface of object 16. In oneembodiment, the surface of the end cap 122 can be flush with the surfaceof the object 16 when inserted into the opening. In one embodiment, theobject 16 includes a protruding member that includes an opening. In thisway, the protruding member creates a surrounding wall or loop around theopening. The opening can include, for example, a flange portion.

FIGS. 13A and 13B depict strap system 130, in accordance with anotherembodiment of the disclosure. Strap system 130 operates similarly tostrap system 120 but employs magnets or other attachment means to secureend cap 122 within the opening in object 16. FIG. 13A shows across-sectional view of attachment system 14 of strap system 130. Asshown above, flexible member 12 can include end cap 122 and flanges onend cap 122 can interlock with a recess provided in object 16. Inaddition, magnetic features 134 can be located within object 16 andmagnetic features 136 can be located within end cap 122. It should benoted that while two magnetic features are depicted in each of object 16and end cap 122, any number of individual magnetic features can be used.Moreover, magnetic features 134 and 136 can represent magnets, ferrousmaterials, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, magneticfeatures 134 and 136 can be oriented to allow flexible member 12 to beinserted from either end of object 16. For example, both magneticfeatures 134 can have a polarity P1 and both magnetic features 136 canhave a polarity P2. The attractive forces between opposing poles ofmagnetic features 134 and 136 can cause end cap 122 to remain securelywithin the opening in object 16 once placed in position. Moreover, asshown in FIG. 13B, flexible member 12 can be inserted through a lowersurface of object 16 and the above mentioned polarities of magneticfeatures 134 and 136 can still operate to retain flexible member 12within object 16.

FIGS. 14A and 14B show strap system 140, demonstrating anotherembodiment of the disclosure. Strap system 140 can be arranged similarlyto strap system 130. However, the polarities of magnetic features instrap system 140 can be configured to allow flexible member 12 to enterobject 16 in only one direction. FIG. 14A shows a cross-sectional viewof strap system 140. Magnetic features 142 can be provided in object 16and magnetic features 144 can be provided in end cap 122. Furthermore,the polarities of magnetic features 142 and 144 can be reversed. Forexample, the left instance of magnetic feature 142 can have a polarityP1 while the right instance of magnetic feature 142 can have a polarityP2. Similarly, the left instance of magnetic feature 144 can have apolarity P2 while the right instance of magnetic feature 144 can have apolarity P1. As depicted in FIG. 14A, opposing poles are aligned withone another so an attractive force can secure end cap 122 within theopening in object 16. However, when flexible member 12 is insertedthrough the lower surface of object 16, as is depicted in FIG. 14B, likepoles are aligned with one another and a repulsive force can prevent auser from inserting flexible member 12 incorrectly. Thus, thearrangement of magnetic features 142 and 144 in strap system 140 canrestrict users to inserting flexible member 12 in only one direction.

FIGS. 15A and 15B show strap system 150, according to another embodimentof the disclosure. Unlike previous embodiments, strap system 150 caninclude only one magnetic feature in each of end cap 122 and object 16.FIG. 15A shows a cross-sectional view of strap system 150 with flexiblemember 12 inserted from an upper side of object 16. Magnetic feature 154can be included in object 16 and magnetic feature 156 can be included inend cap 122. The locations of magnetic features 154 and 156 can beconfigured such that opposing poles of magnetic features 154 and 156 arealigned with one another when flexible member 12 is inserted as shown inFIG. 15A. However, when flexible member 12 is inserted from a lower sideof object 16, as is shown in FIG. 15B, magnetic features 154 and 156 canbe unable to attract one another. Thus, strap system 150 can provide afirm attachment between end cap 122 and the opening in object 16 onlywhen flexible member 12 is inserted in a desired direction.

FIGS. 16A and 16B show strap system 160, according to another embodimentof the disclosure. Strap system 160 can retain end cap 122 and flexiblemember 12 within object 16 using a variety of magnetic features. FIG.16A shows a cross-sectional view of strap system 160. Magnetic features164 can be located near an upper surface of object 16 and magneticfeatures 166 can be located near a lower surface of object 16. Inaddition, magnetic features 168 can be located within end cap 122 andconfigured to align with either magnetic feature 164 or magneticfeatures 166 depending on the direction in which flexible member 12 isinserted through object 16. Furthermore, the polarities of magneticfeatures 164, 166, and 168 can be configured to retain end cap 122within object 16 regardless of the direction in which flexible member 12is inserted. For example, magnetic features 164 and magnetic features166 can both have a polarity P1 while magnetic features 168 have apolarity P2. In this configuration, opposite poles of the magneticfeatures attract one another and retain end cap 122 within object 16both when flexible member 12 is inserted from an upper side of object 16(FIG. 16A) and when flexible member 12 is inserted from a lower side ofobject 16 (FIG. 16B). Therefore, flexible member 12 can be inserted fromeither direction and strap system 160 can still function to retain endcap 122 within object 16.

FIGS. 17A and 17B show strap system 170, according to another embodimentof the disclosure. Strap system 170 can be arranged similar to strapsystem 160. However, the polarities of magnetic features can bere-configured to allow insertion of flexible member 12 into object 16 inone direction only. FIG. 17A shows a cross-sectional view of strapsystem 170. Magnetic features 172 can be located near an upper surfaceof object 16 and magnetic features 174 can be located near a lowersurface of object 16. In addition, magnetic features 176 can be locatedwithin end cap 122 and configured to align with either magnetic feature164 or magnetic features 166 depending on the direction in whichflexible member 12 is inserted through object 16. Furthermore, thepolarities of magnetic features 164, 166, and 168 can be configured toretain end cap 122 within object 16 when flexible member 12 is insertedfrom a first direction and repel end cap 122 from object 16 whenflexible member 12 is inserted from a second direction. For example, theleft instances of magnetic features 172 and 174 can have a polarity P1while the right instances of magnetic features 172 and 174 can have apolarity P2. Furthermore, the left instance of magnetic feature 176 canhave a polarity P2 while the right instance of magnetic feature 176 canhave a polarity P1. In this configuration, opposite poles of magneticfeatures 172 and 176 attract one another when flexible member 12 isinserted from a first direction as is shown in FIG. 17A. However, as isshown in FIG. 17B, when flexible member 12 is inserted from the seconddirection, like poles of magnetic features 174 and 176 repel one anotherand prevent the user from inserting end cap 122 into object 16.

FIGS. 18A and 18B show strap system 180, according to another embodimentof the disclosure. Strap system 180 can include at least four magneticfeatures in both object 16 and end cap 122. FIG. 18A shows across-sectional view of strap system 180. Magnetic features 182 can belocated near an upper surface of object 16 and magnetic features 184 canbe located near a lower surface of object 16. In addition, magneticfeatures 186 can be located near an upper surface of end cap 122 andmagnetic features 188 can be located near a lower surface of end cap122. Magnetic features 186 and 188 can be configured to align witheither magnetic feature 182 or magnetic features 184 depending on thedirection in which flexible member 12 is inserted through object 16.Furthermore, the polarities of magnetic features 182, 184, 186, and 188can be configured to retain end cap 122 within object 16 regardless ofthe direction in which flexible member 12 is inserted. For example,magnetic features 182 and magnetic features 184 can both have a polarityP1 while magnetic features 186 and magnetic features 188 both have apolarity P2. In this configuration, opposite poles of the magneticfeatures attract one another and retain end cap 122 within object 16both when flexible member 12 is inserted from an upper side of object 16(FIG. 18A) and when flexible member 12 is inserted from a lower side ofobject 16 (FIG. 18B). Therefore, flexible member 12 can be inserted fromeither direction and strap system 180 can still function to retain endcap 122 within object 16.

FIGS. 19A and 19B show strap system 190, according to another embodimentof the disclosure. Strap system 190 can be arranged similar to strapsystem 180. However, the polarities of magnetic features can bere-configured to allow insertion of flexible member 12 into object 16 inone direction only. FIG. 19A shows a cross-sectional view of strapsystem 190. Magnetic features 192 can be located near an upper surfaceof object 16 and magnetic features 194 can be located near a lowersurface of object 16. In addition, magnetic features 196 can be locatednear an upper surface of end cap 122 and magnetic features 198 can belocated near a lower surface of end cap 122. Magnetic features 196 and198 can be configured to align with either magnetic feature 192 ormagnetic features 194 depending on the direction in which flexiblemember 12 is inserted through object 16. Furthermore, the polarities ofmagnetic features 192, 194, 196, and 198 can be configured to retain endcap 122 within object 16 when flexible member 12 is inserted from afirst direction and repel end cap 122 from object 16 when flexiblemember 12 is inserted from a second direction. For example, the leftinstances of magnetic features 192 and 194 can have a polarity P1 whilethe right instances of magnetic features 192 and 194 can have a polarityP2. Furthermore, the left instances of magnetic features 196 and 198 canhave a polarity P2 while the right instances of magnetic features 196and 198 can have a polarity P1. In this configuration, opposite poles ofmagnetic features 192, 194, 196, and 198 attract one another whenflexible member 12 is inserted from a first direction as is shown inFIG. 19A. However, as is shown in FIG. 19B, when flexible member 12 isinserted from the second direction, like poles of magnetic features 192,194, 196, and 198 repel one another and prevent the user from insertingend cap 122 into object 16.

FIGS. 20A and 20B show strap system 200, demonstrating anotherembodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 20A shows a cross-sectional view ofstrap system 200. Flexible member 12 can include end cap 202 located ata free end of flexible member 12. End cap 122 can be mechanicallycoupled to flexible member 12 using adhesives, threading, crimping, orany other feasible means of providing a robust connection. In addition,end cap 202 can have angled sides such that end cap 202 becomes wider ina direction away from flexible member 12. Object 16 can include anon-uniform opening shaped to interlock with end cap 202. In someembodiments, the non-uniform opening in object 16 can have similarfeatures on both sides of object 16 so that the opening can interlockwith end cap 202 in multiple directions. Furthermore, attachment system14 can include one or more magnetic features included in end cap 202 andobject 16. In one embodiment, magnetic features having a polarity P1 canbe included in end cap 202 and magnetic features having a polarity P2can be included in object 16. The magnetic features included in object16 can be positioned to align with the magnetic features in end cap 202.Then, magnetic forces generated by the magnetic features can retain endcap 202 within the opening in object 16. In some embodiments, magneticfeatures can be positioned so that magnetic forces can retain end cap202 regardless of the direction in which flexible member 12 is insertedinto the opening in object 16. For example, FIG. 20A shows flexiblemember 12 inserted in a downward direction and FIG. 20B shows flexiblemember 12 inserted in an upward direction.

FIGS. 21A and 21B illustrate strap system 210, demonstrating alternativemethods of configuring magnetic features within attachment system 14.Magnetic features can consist of magnets or ferrous materials. Any setof magnetic features configured to attract one another can consist ofeither two magnets with opposite poles oriented towards one another or amagnet and a ferrous material such as steel or iron. For example, FIG.21A shows a cross-sectional view of strap system 210 and attachmentsystem 14. Magnets having polarity P2 oriented inwards can be positionedwithin object 16 and corresponding ferrous materials can be included inend cap 202. An attractive force is then generated between the magnetsand the ferrous material. In another embodiment, magnets can be includedin end cap 202 and ferrous materials can be included in object 16. Instill another embodiment, magnets can have polarity P1 facing towardsthe ferrous materials. FIG. 21B shows an alternative method ofconfiguring magnets within strap system 210 to prevent flexible member12 from being inserted through object 16 in one direction. As shown,magnets within end cap 202 can have a polarity P1 oriented outwards.Furthermore, magnets positioned near surface 212 of object 16 can have apolarity P2 oriented towards end cap 202 while magnets positioned awayfrom surface 212 of object 16 can have polarity P1 oriented towards endcap 202. When flexible member 12 is inserted downwards as shown in FIG.21B, opposite poles of magnets in end cap 202 and object 16 can attractone another and flexible member 12 is retained within object 16.However, if flexible member 12 is inserted upwards then like poles ofmagnets in end cap 202 and object 16 can repel one another and preventflexible member 12 from being fully inserted into object 16.

FIGS. 22A-22B show strap system 220, according to another embodiment ofthe disclosure. FIGS. 22A and 22B show isometric and cross-sectionalviews of a flexible member 12 engaging an opening disposed in object 16.By threading a first end of flexible member 12 through the opening inobject 16, the first end of flexible member 12 can be folded back on acentral portion of flexible member 12. Contact between the first end offlexible member 12 and the central portion of flexible member 12 cancause the two portions to be coupled to together. In this way flexiblemember 12 can be firmly attached to object 16. The coupling can beaccomplished in any number of ways. For example, the two portions can becoupled together by adhesive, Velcro®, magnetic attraction, or any otherway of providing a secure coupling. While only a portion of object 16 isdepicted, the depicted portion can represent an end portion of almostany object. Being secured in this manner allows flexible member 12 torotate with respect to object 16. In this way, flexible member canpivotally secure object 16 to any of a number of other objects. In amore specific embodiment, an object 16 can have two flexible members 12that can be configured to cooperate to secure object 16 around anotherexample, such as for example, a body or arm.

FIGS. 23A-23B show strap system 230, according to another embodiment ofthe disclosure. In this embodiment flexible member 12 is again threadedthrough an opening in object 16. An attachment feature 232 disposed in afirst end of flexible member 12 couples the first end of flexible member12 to a central portion of flexible member 12. This coupling can beaccomplished by interaction between attachment feature 232 andattachment feature 234. Several methods of coupling can be usedincluding bonding, threading, magnetic attraction, or any other feasiblemethod of coupling attachment features 232 and 234. In some embodiments,attachment features 232 and 234 can represent magnets and the magnetscan be oriented such that opposing poles are oriented towards oneanother when in position as depicted in FIG. 23A. By using magnets,flexible member 12 can be quickly and easily removed from object 16 whendesired, as is shown in FIG. 23B.

FIGS. 24A and 24B show strap system 240, according to another embodimentof the disclosure. Similar to strap system 230, flexible member 12 canbe threaded through an opening in object 16. Furthermore, attachmentfeatures 242 and 244 can be included in flexible member 12. In someembodiments, flexible member 12 can have a varying thickness configuredto allow flexible member 12 to present a uniform surface when a the freeend of flexible member 12 folds back to bring attachment features 242and 244 together. Similar to previous embodiments, attachment features242 and 244 can couple to one another using bonding, threading, magneticattraction, or any other feasible method of coupling attachment features242 and 244. The varying thickness provided in flexible member 12 cancreate a more aesthetically pleasing appearance to strap system 240,enhancing a user's experience. In addition, when strap system 240 isworn against skin, the uniform surface presented by strap system 240 canbe less irritating to the user's skin. FIGS. 25A and 25B show strapsystem 250, demonstrating an alternative embodiment of strap system 240.Strap system 250 includes attachment features 252 and 254. Attachmentfeature 252 can include a section that protrudes above the surface offlexible member 12. Furthermore, attachment feature 254 can be locatedin a recess in flexible member 12 configured to interlock with theprotruding section of attachment feature 252. In this way, the recesscan guide attachment feature 254 into attachment feature 252.

FIGS. 26A and 26B show strap system 260, according to another embodimentof the disclosure. Strap system 260 can include a first end and a secondend of flexible member 12. The first end of flexible member 12 caninclude an opening and the second end of flexible member 12 can passthrough the opening in the first end of flexible member 12. A number ofattachment features 264 can be included in the first end of flexiblemember 12 at regular intervals. In addition attachment feature 262 canbe provided near the second end of flexible member 12. As the second endof flexible member 12 slides through the opening in the first end offlexible member 12, attachment feature 262 can come into alignment withdifferent instances of attachment feature 264. In this manner, strapsystem 260 can be adjusted to fit an individual user or object. In someembodiments, additional attachment features 266 can be provided atregular intervals along the second end of flexible member 12. Additionalattachment features 266 can come into alignment with additionalinstances of attachment features 264, increasing the strength of theattachment. Attachment features 262, 264, and 266 can represent avariety of fastening means, including snaps, magnetic features, clasps,and the like. When attachment features 262, 264, and 266 representmagnetic features, magnets, ferrous materials, or a combination ofmagnets and ferrous materials can be used. It should be noted that insome embodiment, the magnetic features can be arranged in such a way toprovide a continuous magnetic attachment. In other embodiments, themagnetic features can provide a more discrete or indexed form ofmagnetic attachment.

FIGS. 27A and 27B show strap system 270, according to another embodimentof the disclosure. Strap system 270 can include a first end and a secondend of flexible member 12. The first end of flexible member 12 caninclude an opening and the second end of flexible member 12 can passthrough the opening in the first end of flexible member 12. A number ofattachment features 272 can be included in the first end of flexiblemember 12 spaced at regular intervals. In addition, attachment feature271 can be provided near the second end of flexible member 12.Attachment feature 271 can attach to different instances of attachmentfeatures 272 as the size of strap system 270 is adjusted. In someembodiments, additional attachment features 273 can be provided alongthe second end of flexible member 12 to provide additional strength tothe attachment. In addition, attachment features 276 and 277 can beprovided in the first and second ends of flexible member 12 respectivelyto prevent the first end of flexible member 12 from protruding outwards.Attachment features 271, 272, 273, 276, and 277 can represent a varietyof fastening means as was described in FIGS. 26A and 26B. It should benoted that in some embodiment, the magnetic features can be arranged insuch a way to provide a continuous magnetic attachment. In otherembodiments, the magnetic features can provide a more discrete orindexed form of magnetic attachment.

FIGS. 28A and 28B show strap system 280, in accordance with oneembodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 28A shows a perspective view of strapsystem 280. Strap system 280 can include upper flexible member 12 andlower flexible member 12. In other embodiments, either upper flexiblemember 12 or lower flexible member 12 can represent a portion of object16. Strap system 280 can also include attachment system 14. Attachmentsystem 14 can further include clasp 282. Clasp 282 can have a recessallowing upper flexible member 12 to pass through clasp 282.Furthermore, clasp 282 can include one or more magnetic features 286embedded in clasp 282.

FIG. 28B shows a cross-sectional view F-F of strap system 280,demonstrating a possible arrangement of magnetic elements within clasp282, upper flexible member 12, and lower flexible member 12. Upperflexible member 12 can include one or more magnetic features 284.Similarly, lower flexible member 12 can include one or more magneticfeatures 288. Finally, clasp 282 can include magnetic features 286positioned above and below the recess provided in clasp 282. Magneticfeatures 284, 286, and 288 can represent magnets, ferrous materials thatinterface with a magnet, or any other magnetic material. In otherembodiments, magnetic features 284, 286, and 288 can also representmechanical mechanisms such as buttons, snap mechanisms, and hook/catchmechanisms that cooperate with a magnetic or ferrous material. Magneticfeatures 286 can be oriented to provide an attractive force betweenmagnetic features 286 located within clasp 282 and magnetic features 284located within upper flexible member 12. This attractive force can allowclasp 282 to remain in a fixed position relative to one of magneticfeatures 284. Similarly, magnetic features 288 can be oriented toprovide an attractive force between magnetic features 288 and lowermagnetic feature 286. By adjusting the position of clasp 282 relative toupper flexible member 12, the size of strap system 280 can be easily andquickly adjusted. Moreover, the attraction between magnetic features 286and magnetic features 288 can allow strap system 280 to be quicklyfastened.

FIGS. 29A and 29B show strap system 290, in accordance with oneembodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 29A shows a perspective view of strapsystem 290. Strap system 290 can include upper flexible member 12 andlower flexible member 12. In other embodiments, either upper flexiblemember 12 or lower flexible member 12 can represent a portion of object16. Strap system 290 can include attachment system 14. Attachment system14 can further include clasp 292. Clasp 292 can have a recess allowingboth upper flexible member 12 and lower flexible member 12 to passthrough clasp 292. Furthermore, clasp 282 can include one or moremagnetic features 286 embedded in upper and lower surfaces of clasp 292.

FIG. 29B shows a cross-sectional view G-G of strap system 290,demonstrating a possible arrangement of magnetic elements within clasp292, upper flexible member 12, and lower flexible member 12. Similar tostrap system 280, upper flexible member 12 can include one or moremagnetic features 284. Similarly, lower flexible member 12 can includeone or more magnetic features 288. Finally, clasp 292 can includemagnetic features 294 positioned above and below the recess provided inclasp 292. Magnetic features 284, 288, and 294 can represent magnets,ferrous materials that interface with a magnet, or any other magneticmaterial. In other embodiments, magnetic features 284, 288, and 294 canalso represent mechanical mechanisms such as buttons, snap mechanisms,and hook/catch mechanisms that cooperate with a magnetic or ferrousmaterial. Upper magnetic feature 294 can be oriented to provide anattractive force between upper magnetic feature 294 located within clasp282 and magnetic features 284 located within upper flexible member 12.This attractive force can allow clasp 282 to remain in a fixed positionrelative to one of magnetic features 284. Similarly, lower magneticfeature 294 can be oriented to provide an attractive force between lowermagnetic feature 294 and magnetic features 288. By adjusting theposition of clasp 292 relative to upper flexible member 12 and lowerflexible member 12, the size of strap system 290 can be easily andquickly adjusted. Moreover, the attraction between magnetic features 286and magnetic features 288 can allow strap system 280 to be quicklyfastened.

FIGS. 30A and 30B show strap system 300, in accordance with oneembodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 30A shows a perspective view of strapsystem 300. Strap system 300 can include upper flexible member 12 andlower flexible member 12. In other embodiments, either upper flexiblemember 12 or lower flexible member 12 can represent a portion of object16. Strap system 300 can include attachment system 14. Attachment system14 can further include clasp housing 302 and clasp member 304. Clasphousing 302 can include a recess allowing upper flexible member 12 topass through clasp housing 302. Furthermore, clasp housing 302 can berotatably connected to clasp member 304. Clasp member 304 can include adetent capable of exerting a force on upper flexible member 12 whenclasp member 304 is rotated in the direction shown. The force exerted byclasp member 304 can retain clasp housing 302 in position relative toupper flexible member 12.

FIG. 30B shows a cross-sectional view J-J of strap system 300. As isshown, clasp housing 302 can also include magnetic feature 306. Inaddition, lower flexible member 12 can include magnetic feature 308.Magnetic features 306 and 308 can represent magnetic materials, ferrousmaterials, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, magnetic features306 and 308 can be oriented such that an attractive force resultsbetween magnetic features 306 and 308. This magnetic force can coupleupper flexible member 12 to lower flexible member 12 during use. Inother embodiments, magnetic features 306 and 308 can be replaced with amechanical fastening means such as a fastener, clasp, snap, clamp,buckle, or the like. The size of strap system 300 can be easily adjustedby opening clasp member 304 and sliding clasp housing 302 along upperflexible member 12 in a desired direction.

FIG. 31 shows a cross-sectional view of strap system 310, in accordancewith another embodiment of the disclosure. Strap system 310 can includeupper flexible member 12 and lower flexible member 12. In otherembodiments, either upper flexible member 12 or lower flexible member 12can be replaced with a portion of object 16. Attachment system 14 caninclude a number of magnetic features embedded in upper and lowerflexible members 12. In particular, upper flexible member 12 can includeone or more magnetic features 312 and lower flexible member 12 caninclude one or more magnetic features 314. Magnetic features 312 and 314can be oriented such that an attractive force is applied betweenmagnetic features 312 and 314. In some embodiments, both magneticfeatures 312 and 314 can represent magnetic materials. In otherembodiments, one of magnetic features 312 and 314 can represent magneticmaterials while the other represents a ferrous material attracted to thecorresponding magnetic material. With magnetic features 312 and 314correctly oriented, upper and lower flexible members 12 can slide alongone another until a desired size for strap system 310 is reached. Then,magnetic forces between magnetic features 312 and 314 can hold retainupper and lower flexible members 12 in place relative to one another. Inyet another embodiment, magnetic clasp 316 can be included in upperflexible member 12. Magnetic clasp 316 can include a hollow recess,allowing magnetic clasp 316 to slide along upper flexible member 12.Moreover, magnetic clasp 316 can be configured to magnetically attractboth magnetic features 312 and magnetic features 314. The use ofmagnetic clasp 316 can allow both magnetic features 312 and 314 to beferrous materials. Moreover, clasp 316 can allow for only one instanceof magnetic features 314 to be required, as clasp 316 can slide alongupper flexible member 12 in order to align with magnetic feature 314.

FIGS. 32A and 32B show cross-sectional views of strap system 320, inaccordance with another embodiment of the disclosure. Strap system 320can include lower flexible member 12 and upper flexible member 12 orobject 16. FIG. 32A shows strap system 320 prior to insertion. One ormore magnetic features 324 can be included in lower flexible member 12.Similarly, one or more magnetic features 322 can be included in upperflexible member 12 or object 16. Upper flexible member 12 can include aprotruding portion along one end and a hollow recess 328 extendingthrough the protruding portion. FIG. 32B shows strap system 320 in afastened position. Lower flexible member 12 can be inserted throughhollow recess 328 in upper flexible member 12 or object 16. Onceinserted, magnetic features 322 can align with magnetic features 324.Furthermore, magnetic features 322 and 324 can be configured to providean attracting force, allowing lower flexible member 12 to remain inplace relative to upper flexible member 12 or object 16. By providing anumber of magnetic features 322 and 324, lower flexible member 12 can befastened in a variety of positions, allowing strap system 320 toaccommodate multiple sizes. In some embodiments, clasp 326 can beincluded in upper flexible member 12 or object 16. Clasp 326 can includerecesses for both upper and lower flexible members 12, helping excesslength of lower flexible member 12 to remain aligned with upper flexiblemember 12.

FIG. 33 shows a cross-sectional view of strap system 330, demonstratinganother embodiment of the disclosure. Strap system 330 can include upperflexible member 12 and lower flexible member 12. Upper flexible member12 can include one or more attachment elements 334. Lower flexiblemember 12 can include attachment elements 336 and 338 as well as clasp332. Attachment means can be provided for attaching clasp 332 toattachment element 334 and attaching attachment element 336 toattachment element 338. In some embodiments, the attachments can bemechanical, using a fastener, clasp, snap, clamp, buckle, or the like.In other embodiments, attachment features 334, 336, and 338 as well asclasp 332 can be formed from magnetic materials and oriented to provideattractive forces between attachment system 14 and clasp 332 as well asbetween attachment elements 336 and 338. In some embodiments, multipleattachment elements 336 can be provided and the size of strap system 330can be adjusted by coupling attachment element 338 to differentinstances of attachment element 336.

FIGS. 34A and 34B illustrate isometric and cross-sectional views ofstrap system 340 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Asillustrated, flexible members 12, which may be similar to any flexiblemembers described above, can both be threaded and/or engaged with claspmember 342. For example, the clasp member 342 can include a first recess344 configured to receive and engage a free end 346 of one of flexiblemembers 12. Furthermore, the clasp member 342 can include a secondrecess or slot configured to receive and engage a free end or portion ofthe other flexible member 12. The free end 346 can include a cap or amagnetic portion configured to magnetically couple with the recess 344or material forming the clasp member 342. The recess 931 canmechanically restrict movement of the flexible members 12 through theserpentine shape illustrated, and/or may further include claspingmechanisms such as magnets, ferromagnetic material, and/or otherfeatures. A size of strap system 340 can be set and adjusted bycontrolling the travel of flexible member 12 through the serpentinerecess.

FIGS. 35A and 35B show strap system 350, according to another embodimentof the disclosure. Similar to strap system 340, flexible members 12 canbe threaded through openings in clasp member 352. Free end 354 of one offlexible member 12 can include a cap configured to mechanically couplewith clasp member 352. In one embodiment, free end 354 can include flap359 configured to retain flexible member 12 once inserted through claspmember 352. A spring or other means of providing a restoring force canbe included in free end 354, allowing flap 359 to rotate downwards asfree end 354 is inserted through the recess in clasp member 352. Once,free end 354 is fully inserted, the restoring force can cause flap 359to swing outwards, preventing free end 354 from traveling back throughclasp member 352. Free end 354 can be released from clasp member 352 bypressuring downwards on flap 359. In some embodiments, magnetic featurescan be included in strap system 350 as well. Magnetic feature 356 can beincluded in clasp member 352 and one or more magnetic features 358 canbe included in flexible member 12. The addition of magnetic features 356and 358 can allow strap system 350 to be tightened without relying onflap 359 to prevent relative motion between flexible members 12.

FIG. 36 show strap system 360 according to another embodiment of thedisclosure. Strap system 370 can include a first end and a second end offlexible member 12. In some embodiments, either the first end or thesecond end of flexible member 12 can be replaced with a portion ofobject 16. The first end of flexible member 12 can include protrudingmember 362. FIG. 36 shows protruding member 362 formed in a cylindricalshape. However, protruding member 362 can have any technically feasibleshape. For example, FIG. 37 shows protruding member 372 in a roundedrectangular shape. In this way, member 372 does not allow rotation andthus provides a simple version of a preferred orientation orconfiguration. Any other arrangement is simply rejected in that member372 would not “fit”. The second end of flexible member 12 can includedone or more apertures having a shape configured to accept protrudingmember 372. By adjusting the aperture 374 in which protruding member 372is inserted, the size of strap system 370 can be adjusted. Protrudingmember 372 can be retained in aperture 374 using a variety of methods.In one embodiment, an exterior surface of protruding member 362,372 canmechanically engage with an interior surface of aperture 364, 374 usinga snap, clasp, detent, or other means of mechanically forming aconnection. In another embodiment, magnetic features can be placedwithin protruding member 362, 372 and around aperture 364, 374. Themagnetic features can include magnets or ferrous materials and can beoriented to attract one another when protruding member 372 is insertedin aperture 364, 374.

FIGS. 38A and 38B show cross-sectional views of strap system 380according to another embodiment of the disclosure. In some embodiments,strap system 380 can represent a more detailed view of strap system 370shown in FIG. 37A. Strap system 380 can include an upper flexible member12 and a lower flexible member 12. In some embodiments, either of upperflexible member 12 or lower flexible member 12 can be replaced by object16. FIG. 38A shows strap system 380 in an unfastened position. Upperflexible member 12 can include aperture 387 and lower flexible member 12can include protruding member 381 configured to fit within aperture 387.Protruding member 381 can also include one or more flanges along a loweredge and extending within cavity 386. The flanges and cavity 386 cancooperate to allow protruding member 381 to move vertically withoutleaving cavity 386. Magnetic features 382 can be provided along anexterior surface of protruding member 381 and magnetic features 383 canbe provided along an interior surface of aperture 387. FIG. 38B showsstrap system 380 in a fastened position. When protruding member 381 isinserted into aperture 387, magnetic features 382 can be aligned withmagnetic features 383. Magnetic features 382 and 383 can representmagnets or ferrous materials configured to attract one another whenaligned. The resulting magnetic attraction can retain protruding member381 within aperture 387, causing strap system 380 to fasten. In someembodiments, strap system 380 can also include magnetic features 384 and385. Magnetic feature 384 can be coupled to a lower surface ofprotruding member 381 and magnetic feature 385 can be coupled to a lowersurface of cavity 386. Furthermore, magnetic features 384 and 385 can beoriented to repel one another. This can allow protruding member 381 todescend into lower flexible member 12 when a downward force is appliedon protruding member 381 by a user or upper flexible member 12.

FIGS. 39A and 39B show strap system 390 demonstrating a variation onstrap system 380 using mechanical retention means instead of magneticretention means. FIG. 39A shows strap system 390 in an unfastened stateand FIG. 39B shows strap system 390 in a fastened state. Protrudingmember 381 can be included in lower flexible member 12 and aperture 387can be included in upper flexible member 12 similar to strap system 380.However, instead of magnetic features for retaining protruding member381, mechanical features can be provided. Pins 396 can be provided alongan inner surface of aperture 387. Two pins 396 are depicted, but itshould be noted that any number of pins can be used. Pins 396 can becoupled to upper flexible member 12 using a spring or any othertechnically feasible means of providing a restoring force. In addition,end points of pins 396 can be rounded or angled to allow protrudingmember 381 to push pins 396 into openings within the inner surface ofcavity 387 while compressing the springs. Keyholes 394 can be includedin an outer surface of protruding member 381 and can have a shapeconfigured to mate with pins 396. When protruding member 381 is insertedinto aperture 387, pins 396 can engage with keyholes 394, fasteningupper flexible member 12 to lower flexible member 12. Similar to strapsystem 380, magnetic features 384 and 385 can be provided in someembodiments to allow protruding member 381 to descend into lowerflexible member 12 when a downward force is applied on protruding member381.

FIGS. 40A-40E show strap system 400, according to another embodiment ofthe disclosure. In FIG. 40A, a first end of flexible member 12 is shown.Flexible member 12 can include one or more attachment features 406embedded in or coupled to flexible member 12.

In addition, clasp 402 is shown. Clasp 402 can include a hollow recessconfigured to accept flexible member 12 and protruding member 404.Protruding member 404 is shown in a rounded rectangular shape. However,it should be noted that any conceivable shape for protruding member 404can be used. FIG. 40B shows flexible member 12 inserted into clasp 402.In some embodiments, clasp 402 can be coupled to attachment feature 406by mechanical means. In other embodiments, attachment feature 406 caninclude a magnetic material and can attract a corresponding magnetincluded in an interior portion of clasp 402. In FIG. 40C, a second endof flexible member 12 or object 16 is introduced including aperture 408.Aperture 408 can be configured to mate with protruding member 404. FIG.40D shows the second end of flexible member 12 fastening to the firstend of flexible member 12 by inserting protruding member 404 intoaperture 408. FIG. 40E shows a cross-sectional view of protruding member404 extending through aperture 408. In some embodiments, protrudingmember 404 can be coupled to aperture 408 using mechanical means such asthose described in strap system 390 shown in FIGS. 39A-39B. In otherembodiments, protruding member 404 can be magnetically coupled toaperture 408 similar to methods described in strap system 380 shown inFIGS. 38A-38B.

FIGS. 41A-41E show strap system 410 in accordance with anotherembodiment of the disclosure. In FIG. 41A, a first end of flexiblemember 12 is shown with a number of openings 414 spaced along a lengthof flexible member 12. In addition, plug 412 is shown. Plug 412 can havea cylindrical shape with a relatively wide disk at an upper end and arelatively small disk positioned at a lower end. The small disk can berounded on a bottom surface and can be configured to fit through one ofopenings 414 when a pre-defined force is applied to plug 412. FIG. 41bshows plug 412 inserted into one of openings 414 in flexible member 12.Flexible member 12 can be formed from a material that allows openings414 to deform sufficiently to allow the lower disk of plug 412 to passthrough openings 414 without causing damage to flexible member 12. InFIG. 41C, the second end of flexible member 12 is introduced. The secondend of flexible member 12 can have attachment feature 416 coupled to asurface facing the first end of flexible member 12. In. FIG. 41D, thefirst and second ends of flexible member 12 are coupled by combiningattachment feature 416 with a corresponding attachment feature on anupper surface of plug 412. In some embodiments, attachment feature 416and plug 412 can be coupled using mechanical means. In otherembodiments, attachment feature 416 and plug 412 can include magneticfeatures such as magnets and ferrous materials configured to attract oneanother. FIG. 41E shows cross-sectional view L-L, showing attachmentfeature 416 in contact with plug 412. The size of strap system 410 canbe adjusted by moving 412 into different instances of openings 414 andreengaging attachment feature 416.

FIGS. 42A-42D show strap system 420 in accordance with anotherembodiment of the disclosure. In FIG. 42A, a perspective view of strapsystem 420 is shown. Corresponding hook clasps 422 are provided on botha first and second end of flexible member 12. Hook clasps 422 can alsoinclude magnetic features 424 along an interior surface as shown. FIG.42B shows a plan view of strap system 420. Internal to the end portionsof flexible member 12, springs 426 can be included to provide arestoring force to hook clasps 422. FIG. 42C shows strap system 420 ashook clasps 422 come into contact with one another. The surfaces of hookclasps 422 that first come into contact can be angled as shown toprovide a lateral force capable of compressing springs 426. Finally,FIG. 42D shows strap system 420 in a latched position. Once the hookportions of hook clasps 422 clear one another, force built up bycompressing springs 426 can be released, bringing magnetic features 424into contact with one another. The combination of spring force andmagnetic force can keep strap system 420 securely clasped. Disengagementor unlocking can be facilitated through of twist of each end of flexiblemember 12 combined with lateral movement of one end relative to another.

In some embodiments, a magnetic attachment system can take the form of amagnetic material having properties that permit the magnetic material totake on an interleaved or woven pattern. The magnetic material can, forexample, take the form of strands of magnetic material or materialcapable of having a magnetic field induced. The strands can be fittedtogether in a mesh or woven pattern forming in the process a weave, ormesh, not unlike a fabric, the strands being analogous to yarn orthread. It should be noted that the strands can be ferromagnetic innature in which certain materials, such as iron, that are attracted tomagnetic fields generated by, for example, a magnet. Ferromagneticmaterials can also have a magnetic field induced therein using anexternal magnetic field to create and align magnetic domains within theferromagnetic material. In this way, a woven substrate formed offerromagnetic strands can exhibit a small or no intrinsic magnetic fieldbut selected portions can be magnetized by a focused magnetic fieldhaving the effect of magnetizing selected strands or groups of stands ofwoven material. Likewise, magnetic properties of selected strands orgroups of strands can be altered by the application of an externalmagnetic field. For example, the magnetic field strength of a strand orgroup of strands can be altered (increased or decreased) by theapplication of an appropriately configured external magnetic field.Moreover, an external energy source (such as a laser) can demagnetizeselected strands or groups of strands by heating which can randomize theorientation of magnetic domains within a strand or group of strands. Itshould also be noted that some strands may exhibit diamagnetic behaviorthat causes the strand to repel an external magnetic field. In this way,a woven substrate can include strands some of which are ferromagnetic,some of which are diamagnetic and others of which exhibit no magneticproperties or ability to become magnetized.

The strands can possess an intrinsic magnetism or a magnetic field canbe induced in a selected strand or strands. The resulting magnetic fieldcan take many forms capable of providing a number of useful services.For example, the strands can be arranged in a linear pattern. In oneembodiment, selected ones of the strands can possess an intrinsicpolarity in which case, magnetic regions can be interleaved withnon-magnetic regions. In some cases, selected strands can have theirmagnetic fields dampened using, for example, a laser that reduces oreliminates the alignment of magnetic domains within the strands. In thisway, selected portions (or even individual strands) can be de-magnetizedto form a distribution of magnetic regions and non-magnetic regions.

Accordingly, FIGS. 43-51 illustrate various embodiments of a substrateformed of a plurality of strands of various forms some of which canexhibit ferromagnetic properties, some of which can exhibit diamagneticproperties, some of which can be non-magnetic and some of which can beinduced to become magnetic (or become non-magnetic) using an externalagent. FIG. 43 shows magnetic strap 430 formed of woven magneticmaterial. The magnetic material can take many forms that includesferrous metal such as iron. In addition, the magnetic material caninclude a magnetic substrate populated by magnetic particles, or aplurality of magnetic elements which taken together form a substantiallycontinuous magnetic substrate formed of discrete magnetic components.The magnetic components can include strands interleaved or woven into afabric like structure that is flexible, strong, and provides a magneticmedium for magnetic attachment for a device.

FIG. 44 shows magnetic attachment system 440 in the form of magneticstrap 442 in accordance with the described embodiments. Magnetic strap442 can include a plurality of strands 444 some of which can exhibitmagnetic behavior. For example, strands 444 can be magnetic and exhibita magnetic field whereas adjacent strand 446 can exhibit no or only anegligible magnetic field. In this way, magnetic strap 442 can exhibit amagnetic pattern that takes the form of a number of parallel magneticregions 446 separated from each other by non-magnetic regions 448. Inthis way, magnetic strap 442 can form an attachment with itself oranother magnetically active strap or object. In some cases, aninteraction with the linear magnetic pattern can be used forpreferential attachment. Accordingly, by judiciously arrangingmagnetically active strands and non-magnetically active strands,magnetic strap 442 can be used to repeatedly attach in a preferredconfiguration. For example, magnetic strap 442 can be used as a armbandthan can be magnetically fixed in such a way that magnetic strap 442will always form the armband having a specific size.

FIG. 45 shows another embodiment of magnetic strap in the form ofmagnetic strap 450. Magnetic strap 450 can include substrate 452.Substrate 452 can be magnetic or non-magnetic. In the embodiment shown,however, substrate 452 is non-magnetic in nature and is formed of anumber of interwoven (or interleaved) strands of non-magnetic material.Magnetic material in the form of magnetic bands 454 can be secured toselected ones of substrate 452. Magnetic bands 454 can be secured toselected ones of the strands that form substrate 452. In this way, amagnetic pattern can be formed in substrate 452. In this example, themagnetic pattern can be linear in nature. In this case, the magneticpattern can include magnetic bands 454 separated by non-magnetic regions456. However, it should be noted that this example is but one of many.In some cases, substrate 452 can be magnetic and bands 454 can benon-magnetic in which case an inverse magnetic pattern can be formed.For example, FIG. 46 shows magnetic pattern 460 in which substrate 462is formed of a number of bands 464 interleaved with selected strands466. In this way, a magnetic pattern that is orthogonal to the magneticpattern shown in FIG. 45 can be formed. It should be noted that magneticpatterns can be combined. For example, the magnetic pattern shown inFIG. 45 can be combined with that shown in FIG. 46 to form a twodimensional rectangular pattern of magnetic elements. It should also benoted that any magnetic pattern can be altered. For example, an externalenergy source can be used to de-magnetize selected magnetic elements. Inthis way, the magnetic pattern can be altered in a manner that can beused to customize an application for which magnetic strap is used.

FIG. 47 shows yet magnetic strap 470 in accordance with the describedembodiments. Magnetic strap 470 can include substrate 472 and(non-magnetic) strands 474 interleaved with (magnetic strands) 476forming a pattern of doubled magnetic bands. Again it should be notedthat the various magnetic patterns can be widely varied. For example,the magnetic patterns can be combined to form linear patterns, twodimensional patterns and in some cases three dimensional patterns. Forexample, a three dimensional pattern can be formed by incorporatingmagnetic elements within substrate 472 or on a bottom surface ofsubstrate 472. In some cases, substrate 472 can be formed of a number oflayers of strands in which some of the layers can be associated withmagnetic elements to form the three dimensional magnetic pattern.

FIGS. 48 thru 51 show other examples of magnetic straps. For example,FIG. 48 shows magnetic strap 480 includes substrate 482 formed of anumber of interlinking circular elements 484 some of which are magnetic(and some of which can be induced to be magnetic). FIG. 49 shows strap490 where substantially all the interlinking circular elements aremagnetic. FIG. 49 shows magnetic strap 490 includes substrate 492 ofinterlinked loops 494 of material (similar to a chain link fence) andFIG. 50 shows an embodiment where substantially all of the interlinkedloops are magnetic.

It should be noted that magnetic patterns can be used to control thestrength and/or direction of the magnetic fields thereby providing thedesired attraction and break forces. In fact, it may be that the strapsare designed to have different magnetic strengths depending upon theuser or the environment. For the active environment then the force canbe higher while in a non-active environment, the force can be lower.

A modular strap family includes one or more base units and one or morestrap sets. It should be appreciated however that any number of baseunits and straps sets may be provided (n+1). Each of base units may beconfigured differently. For example, although they all includefunctional elements, the function elements may be configureddifferently. For example base unit may have functional unit. Functionalunits may for example include one or more functional elements such asdisplays, buttons, controllers, and the like. Furthermore, each of thebase units may have a different enclosure. By different enclosure, itmay be a different color, different material, different shape, differentaccoutrements, different patterns, etc. Essentially the enclosures areconfigured to provide a different aesthetic or different look and feelthan the other enclosures in the family. As such. the purchaser or usercan select the base unit with the desired look and feel and the desiredfunctionality. This may be at the time of purchase thus allowingdifferentiation from other purchasers or it may be that all or someportion of the base units come in a set such that the user can selectthe right base unit for the right moment. In one example, one base unitmay be configured for exercise while another may be configured for abusiness setting. Any combination of enclosure and functional featuresmay be provided to create a different base unit (N+1).

Referring to the strap sets, like the base units, each of the straps maybe configured differently. For example, the functional aspects and theaesthetic aspects may be configured differently. The first strap mayhave a first characteristic, the second strap may have a secondcharacteristic, the third strap may have a third characteristic, thefourth strap may have a fourth characteristic with each characteristicbeing different, the characteristic may be in mechanical configurationsuch as material properties, structural features each of which can helpdefine flexibility or rigidity, tactile feel, and the like or aestheticproperties such as color, patterns, materials, etc. each of which canprovide a different look and feel. Furthermore, each of the strap setsmay have a different attachment mechanism, one for each strap in theset. The attachment mechanisms can be widely varied and generallyselected from any of these mentioned previously in FIGS. 1-49.Generally, they are configured to engage one another such that they arelocked into place relative to one another thereby securing each of thestraps in the strap set to one another, making them a single cooperatingsystem. For example, they may be attached into a loop. The attachmentmechanisms can include multiple locking nodes in order to change thesize of the loop, i.e., adjustable. Of course, the attachment mechanismsmay also be configured to disengage from one another such that they arereleased relative to one another thereby un-securing each of the strapsfrom one another. In one embodiment, the attachment mechanisms include amagnetic feature such that they snap and hold into place with magneticforce and release when a force is applied greater than the magneticforce (breaking force).

Like the base units, the straps are configured to provide a differentfunction and/or aesthetic or different look and feel than the otherstraps in the family. As such. the purchaser or user can select thestrap set with the desired look and feel and the desired functionality.This may be at the time of purchase thus allowing differentiation fromother purchasers or it may be that all or some portion of the strapscome in a set such that the user can select the right base unit for theright moment. In one example, one strap may be configured for exercisewhile another may be configured for a business setting. Any combinationof aesthetic and functional features may be provided to create adifferent strap (N+1). When combined with the different base units, thefamily becomes extremely customizable. The user can create a differentarticle by selecting one base unit to go along with one strap set. Ifmultiple sets are provided, any number of different articleconfigurations can be made.

In accordance with this application, the family may include astandardized attachment mechanism at the interface or engagement betweenthe strap sets and the base units. That is, each set or each base unithas the same attachment mechanism such that they can be interchangedwith one another. Unlike the straps and base units themselves which canbe different, the attachment mechanisms provided on each set of strapsare the same and the attachment mechanisms provided on each of the baseunits are the same. The attachment mechanisms can be widely varied andgenerally selected from any of these mentioned previously in FIGS. 1-51.Generally, they are configured to engage one another such that they arelocked into place relative to one another thereby securing the strap setto the base unit, making them a single cooperating system. Of course,the attachment mechanisms may also be configured to disengage from oneanother such that they are released relative to one another therebyun-securing the strap set from the base unit. In one embodiment, theattachment mechanisms include a magnetic feature such that they snap andhold into place with magnetic force and release when a force is appliedgreater than the magnetic force (breaking force).

The electronic device can take many forms such as a portable mediaplayer according to one embodiment of the disclosure. The media playeris, for example, suitable for use as the battery powered portable mediaplayer. The media player includes a processor that pertains to amicroprocessor or controller for controlling the overall operation ofthe media player. The media player stores media data pertaining to mediaassets in a file system and a cache. The file system is, typically, astorage disk or a plurality of disks. The file system typically provideshigh capacity storage capability for the media player. However, sincethe access time to the file system is relatively slow, the media playercan also include a cache. The cache is, for example, Random-AccessMemory (RAM) provided by semiconductor memory. The relative access timeto the cache is substantially shorter than for the file system. However,the cache does not have the large storage capacity of the file system.Further, the file system, when active, consumes more power than does thecache. The power consumption is particularly important when the mediaplayer is a portable media player that is powered by a battery (notshown). The media player also includes a RAM and a Read-Only Memory(ROM). The ROM can store programs, utilities or processes to be executedin a non-volatile manner. The RAM provides volatile data storage, suchas for the cache.

The media player also includes a user input device that allows a user ofthe media player to interact with the media player. For example, theuser input device can take a variety of forms, such as a button, keypad,dial, etc. Still further, the media player includes a display (screendisplay) that can be controlled by the processor to display informationto the user. A data bus can facilitate data transfer between at leastthe file system, the cache, and the processor. The media player alsoincludes a bus interface that couples to a data link. The data linkallows the media player to couple to a host computer over a wiredconnection.

In one embodiment, the media player serves to store a plurality of mediaassets (e.g., songs) in the file system. When a user desires to have themedia player play a particular media item, a list of available mediaassets is displayed on the display. Then, using the user input device, auser can select one of the available media assets. The processor, uponreceiving a selection of a particular media item, supplies the mediadata (e.g., audio file) for the particular media item to a coder/decoder(CODEC). The CODEC then produces analog output signals for a speaker.The speaker can be a speaker internal to the media player or external tothe media player. For example, headphones or earphones that connect tothe media player would be considered an external speaker.

Additional alterations from those particularly described and illustratedherein are apparent from the teachings presented herein. Therefore, theparticular forms illustrated should not be construed as limiting and anyand all equivalent acts, structures, and forms should be interpreted tofall within the scope of embodiments of the disclosure. Additionally,the various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of thedescribed embodiments can be used separately or in any combination.Furthermore, a plurality of different materials may be used singularlyor in combination to form the various embodiments and implementationsdescribed above.

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specificnomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the describedembodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art thatthe specific details are not required in order to practice the describedembodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodimentsare presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the described embodiments to theprecise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill inthe art that many modifications and variations are possible in view ofthe above teachings.

What is claimed is:
 1. A modular assembly for electronic devices,comprising: a first base unit of a first electronic device, the firstbase unit comprising: a first functional element configured to perform afirst set of functions; and a first enclosure housing the firstfunctional element and defining a first attachment coupling; a secondbase unit of a second electronic device, the second base unitcomprising: a second functional element configured to perform a secondset of functions different from the first set of functions; and a secondenclosure housing the second functional element and defining a secondattachment coupling; and a strap unit, comprising: a strap defining athird attachment coupling; wherein: in a first configuration, the thirdattachment coupling couples the strap to the first attachment coupling;and in a second configuration, the third attachment coupling couples thestrap to the second attachment coupling.
 2. The modular assembly asrecited in claim 1 wherein the the first and second attachment couplingseach include a magnetic element configured to securely and releasablyengage the first and second attachment couplings respectively to thethird attachment coupling.
 3. The modular assembly as recited in claim1, wherein the strap unit further includes an additional strap that isconfigured to securely and releasably engage the strap.
 4. The modularassembly as recited in claim 3 wherein the additional strap attaches tothe strap using a magnetic element.
 5. The modular assembly as recitedin claim 1 further comprising a third base unit of a third electronicdevice, the third base unit comprising: a third functional elementconfigured to perform a third set of functions different from the firstand second sets of functions; and a third enclosure housing the thirdfunctional element that defines a fourth attachment coupling to whichthe third attachment coupling is configured to attach.
 6. The modularassembly as recited in claim 1 further comprising an additional strapunit configured to couple with either of the first or second base unitsand having a different strap characteristic than the strap unit.
 7. Themodular assembly as recited in claim 6 wherein the strap characteristicis an aesthetic characteristic.
 8. The modular assembly as recited inclaim 7 wherein the aesthetic characteristic is at least one of asurface texture, surface finish, a color, a shape, a material, or astructural configuration.
 9. The modular assembly as recited in claim 6wherein the strap unit and the additional strap unit are configured toperform different functions.
 10. The modular assembly as recited inclaim 6 wherein the third attachment coupling and an attachment couplingof the additional strap unit have at least one of different attachmentforces or different break forces.
 11. The modular assembly as recited inclaim 6 wherein the strap unit and the additional strap unit eachinclude a functional feature, wherein the functional feature of thestrap unit is configured differently from the functional feature of theadditional strap unit.
 12. The modular assembly as recited in claim 1further comprising an additional strap unit configured to couple to thefirst base unit in a third configuration and the second base unit in afourth configuration wherein the additional strap unit has a differentaesthetic characteristic than the strap unit.
 13. The modular assemblyas recited in claim 12 wherein the aesthetic characteristic is at leastone of a surface texture, a surface finish, a color, a shape, amaterial, or a structural configuration.
 14. The modular assembly asrecited in claim 1 wherein the first functional element and the secondfunctional element each include at least one of a display, a button, ora controller.
 15. The modular assembly as recited in claim 1 wherein thefirst functional element and the second functional element are differenttypes of functional elements.
 16. The modular assembly as recited inclaim 1 wherein a size of the strap unit is adjustable.
 17. A method forforming a modular assembly for a family of base units of electronicdevices, comprising: providing the family of base units comprising: afirst base unit comprising: a first functional element configured toperform a first set of functions and a first enclosure housing the firstfunctional element and defining a first attachment coupling; and asecond base unit comprising: a second functional element configured toperform a second set of functions different than the first set offunctions and a second enclosure housing the first functional elementand defining a second attachment coupling as the first base unit; andattaching a strap unit comprising: a strap defining a third attachmentcoupling; wherein: in a first configuration, the third attachmentcoupling couples the strap to the first attachment coupling; and in asecond configuration, the third attachment coupling couples the strap tothe second attachment coupling.
 18. A modular assembly for electronicdevices, comprising: a base unit of an electronic device, the base unitcomprising: a functional element; and an enclosure housing thefunctional element and defining a first attachment coupling; and a firststrap unit and a second strap unit each comprising: a strap defining astrap attachment coupling; a functional feature wherein the functionalfeature of the first strap unit is configured to perform a different setof functions than the functional feature of the second strap unit;wherein: in a first configuration, the strap attachment coupling of thefirst strap unit couples the strap of the first strap unit to the firstattachment coupling; and in a second configuration, the strap attachmentcoupling of the second strap unit couples the strap of the second strapunit to the first attachment coupling.